Translation guide
This guide helps you express the concept of 'sexual' in Japanese, covering meanings from biological sex to sexual activity and desire. It prioritizes natural, common expressions and warns against direct translations that may sound awkward or overly clinical.
To describe something as pertaining to biological sex, gender, or physical characteristics of males and females.
The most direct and common translation for 'sexual' in the sense of relating to sex or gender. Used in compounds like 'sexual characteristics' or 'sexual difference'.
Literally 'of sex/gender', used in phrases like 'sexual equality' or 'sexual identity'. Slightly more formal or academic than 性的.
To describe something as involving or related to sexual acts, intercourse, or physical intimacy.
The standard adjective for 'sexual' in contexts like 'sexual relationship', 'sexual activity', or 'sexual behavior'. It is neutral and widely understood.
Loanword from English, used in some contexts like 'sexual harassment' (セクシャルハラスメント) or 'sexual orientation' (セクシャルオリエンテーション). Often abbreviated to セクハラ for harassment. Not as common as 性的 for general use.
To describe feelings, desires, or attractions that are sexual in nature.
Again, the most common way to express 'sexual' in phrases like 'sexual desire' or 'sexual attraction'. It is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal settings.
Means 'sexual desire' or 'libido'. It is a noun and more direct than 性的な欲求. Commonly used in everyday conversation.
Slang adjective meaning 'erotic' or 'sexy', often used to describe something that arouses sexual interest. Casual and can be vulgar depending on context.
To refer to a person's sexual orientation or identity.
The formal term for 'sexual orientation'. Used in official contexts, LGBTQ+ discussions, and psychology.
Sexual orientation varies from person to person.
Loanword for 'sexuality', often used in discussions about sexual identity. More casual than 性的指向.
While セクシャル is used in some loanword compounds, it is not a general-purpose adjective. Using it to directly modify a noun (e.g., セクシャルな関係) can sound unnatural. Stick to 性的な for most cases.
性的 is more common and versatile, while 性の is often used in fixed compounds or formal contexts. For example, 'sexual harassment' is 性的嫌がらせ (せいてきいやがらせ) or セクハラ, not 性の嫌がらせ.
Specifically means 'physical/sexual relationship', often used to describe having a sexual relationship with someone. More direct than 性的な関係.
I have a sexual relationship with him.
セクシャルハラスメント
sexual harassment
性欲が強い。
I have a strong sexual desire.
That movie has a lot of sexual scenes.
I'm struggling with my sexuality.